BREAKING: Super Eagles’ Captain Troost-Ekong Retires from International Football

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a distinguished nine-year career with Nigeria’s senior national team.

The 31-year-old defender, who earned 83 caps, featured in five major international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the FIFA World Cup. Over the course of his service, he secured three medals and became widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most dependable and disciplined defenders of his generation.

Troost-Ekong, known for his commanding presence in defence and his influential leadership within the squad, expressed deep emotion as he confirmed his decision to step away from international duty. He received widespread respect from fans, teammates and coaches for his unwavering commitment to the national team.

Reflecting on the upcoming AFCON, the former captain revealed that he would be supporting the team from home.

“It’s going to be really strange. I’m probably going to be screaming at my TV,” he said. “I will be just as passionate, but probably a lot more nervous. When you are not playing, you can’t affect anything. But I’ll be proud seeing the players out there, and I really hope they win it. That would be a nice moment to crown our generation. I’d still feel part of that. Nigerian football is so close to my heart. It will always be a part of me.”

Troost-Ekong began his international journey after representing the Netherlands at U19 and U20 levels, opting in 2015 to switch allegiance to Nigeria. He went on to win both Olympic and AFCON medals, represent the nation at the 2018 World Cup, and eventually earn the captain’s armband — a testament to his influence and professionalism.

As he bows out, tributes continue to pour in for a player whose leadership and resilience left an indelible mark on the Super Eagles. His retirement signals the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in his football career.

The Nigerian football community wishes him the very best as he steps into life beyond the international stage.